One of the group members, Lois Davis, said: "There is also the plan for Thatcher's children to stand anywhere in the funeral procession and turn their backs as the coffin goes by.

"That way the world press will not be able to avoid recording how many of us reject the legacy of the 'no such thing as society' woman and the police won't be able to find a hot spot to kettle or disperse".

Group creator Francis, an Oxford Brookes University student from Tunbridge Wells, added his intentions were to "prevent a warped idolising view of the UK being spread by the worldwide media" by staging the protest.

He added: "Margaret Thatcher's choice to enter the public arena negates her of any of the protection from vilification that a private individual enjoys, to stifle her beration is ironic given the ideals of competitive individualism she so frequently put forth. But should this openness to public criticism be extended to her mourners?

"Yes, if they chose to make her funeral a public hagiographic affair, exempt of all criticism, funded from the public purse."

Cmdr Christine Jones of the Met Police said: "There has been much speculation about what levels of protest may take place. I would ask anyone who wishes to demonstrate then, or in the coming days, to come and talk to us.

"The right to protest is one that must be upheld, however, we will work to do that whilst balancing the rights of those who wish to pay their respects and those who wish to travel about London as usual."